Generic Name: amoxicillin (a mox i
SIH lin)
Typical Brand Names: Amoxicot, Amoxil, Amoxil Pediatric Drops,
Biomox, Dispermox, Trimox, Wymox
What Is It Used For?
Amoxicillin is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria,
such as pneumonia; bronchitis; gonorrhea; and infections of the
ears, nose, throat, urinary tract, and skin. It is also used in
combination with other medications to eliminate other infections
as well.
How Is It Used?
The dispersible tablets (e.g., Dispermox) should be dissolved
in water before administration. One tablet should be added to
a container holding approximately 2 teaspoons of water (10 mL).
Stir or swirl the mixture until the tablet is completely dissolved.
Drink the entire mixture immediately, do not save for later use.
Rinse the container with another small amount of water and drink
the contents to ensure you get the full dose of medicine. Do not
chew or swallow the tablets. The tablets will not dissolve in
the mouth. Do not dissolve the tablets in any liquid other than
water.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Serious side effects from Amoxicillin are unlikely to occur; however
an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat;
hives; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; rash; or fainting);
Less serious side effects like: dizziness, headache, blurred vision,
and nausea, brown, black or green urine are more likely to occur.
Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or
that is especially bothersome
Is It Safe?
Amoxicillin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that
it is not expected to be dangerous to an unborn baby. Amoxicillin
is generally considered to be safe for use during pregnancy. Do
not, however, take amoxicillin without first talking to your doctor
if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
You may not be able to take amoxicillin, or you may require a
dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you
are taking any of the medicines listed below.
antibiotic (for the same or for a different infection); methotrexate
(Rheumatrex);allopurinol (Zyloprim);
probenecid (Benemid).
What If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, and take the rest
of the day's doses at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it
is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the
dose you missed and take the rest of the doses for the day as
directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless
otherwise directed by your doctor.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store the tablets and capsules at room temperature and store the
suspension in the refrigerator for longer use. The suspension
is good for 7 days at room temperature and for 14 days if stored
in the refrigerator. Throw away any unused liquid after this amount
of time.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Amoxicillin may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills.
If you are taking birth control pills, use a second method of
birth control while taking amoxicillin to ensure protection from
unintended pregnancy. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience
severe or bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps during treatment
with amoxicillin.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
